Q: What can I do to improve ventilation in my barn to help a horse with equine asthma?

A: Horse owners are always looking to improve the air quality in their barns. This becomes more important when you have horses with a respiratory issue. To improve air quality means improving the ventilation in the barn and spaces where the horses spend time. It is important to remember that ventilation is the exchange of air—remove the stale air that might have dust and other irritants and replace it with fresh air—not just moving air. Many farm owners use fans, but if there is no air exchange there is no ventilation. 

Improving ventilation means removing the stale air. This can be through a window in the stall or having an open area above the stall that allows air to escape. Without removing stale air there is no room for fresh air. Open stall doors and more open stall fronts (i.e., grates or bars on the front of the stall) help move fresh air into the stall. In some cases adding a stall fan can help, but it needs to assist in the air exchange, not just move air around. 

Consider the daily activities in the barn and choose the best times to do chores that can reduce air quality, such as cleaning stalls and sweeping the aisles, to reduce contaminants in the air. If possible, doing those daily chores when horses are out of the barn is ideal, but that can be a challenge. 

Keep the barn open and ensure good air exchange when doing these chores, especially if horses must be in the barn during this time. 

Take-Home Message 

Good barn ventilation supports equine respiratory health by removing stale, dusty air and bringing in fresh air. Open stall fronts, windows, and vents can improve airflow, while fans should aid air exchange rather than circulate dust. Whenever possible, complete chores such as stall cleaning and sweeping while horses are outside to reduce exposure to irritants. Focus on creating steady air exchange—fresh air in, stale air out—for healthier horses.